Internationally recognized martial arts master and instructor Yajun “Thomas” Zhuang was selected by the Chinese government to attend the Jiangsu Wushu Institute when he was only 8 years old.

Today, he is one of China’s top martial arts trainers and is bringing the art of Wushu to Baton Rouge. He started out holding informal classes in his backyard, but Zhuang finally opened his own 4,000-square-foot studio Saturday specially designed for martial arts training.

Zhuang’s studio offers a variety of classes, including qi gong, kung fu and several forms of tai chi. Students learn as a class, but individuals progress at their own pace based on their health and physical ability. Zhuang’s modified tai chi and qi gong therapy earned great acclaim from the medical community for its effects on patients suffering from peripheral neuropathy and Parkinson’s Disease.

“I opened my studio to bring Chinese culture to the community,” Zhuang said. “People of all ages, from 5 to 95, can benefit from learning martial arts.”

Zhuang believes any student can improve his or her health and confidence through practicing qi gong, kung fu or tai chi. Each form is a part of Wushu, the Chinese term for martial arts. Internal forms focus on the qi, external forms focus on physical strength and agility.

Qi gong is an ancient Chinese health system that focuses on the cultivation of qi, which is pronounced “chee,” and refers to the life force of vital energy that flows through all things in the universe. The second word, “gong,” is pronounced “gung” and means accomplishment or skill. Qi gong uses breathing techniques and mental focus to improve mental, physical and spiritual well-being.

Kung fu means “hard work” and increases strength and flexibility through intense movement. Students can learn animal imitations and eventually specialize in weapons such as the staff, sword and saber.

Known as “meditation in motion,” tai chi provides flow, balance, and promotes general well-being by synchronizing the body and mind. Tai chi has many benefits, including reducing anxiety and depression, improving balance, increasing energy and improving sleep quality.

Computer science senior Jacob Diaz has attended Zhuang’s adult kung fu class for nearly two years. He said he loves learning kung fu because it allows him to “go nuts, relieve stress and get exercise.”

Graphic design senior Elise Patterson also attends the adult kung fu class and specializes with the sword.

“There’s something for everyone here,” Patterson said. “You can focus on your strengths and find a style that really suits you.”

Single class: $15 each
1 class per week: $50/month
2 classes per week: $80/month
Unlimited classes per week: $110/month
Personal training and private classes are also available.
Note: There is a one-time registration fee of $30, which includes the academy uniform of a t-shirt and pants.
Address is 4846 Revere Avenue.